Replacing Lead and Cast Iron Pipes in Paris: The Great Health and Renovation Project
In old Parisian real estate (Haussmann buildings, pre-1950), the plumbing network is a heavy legacy. Drinking water pipes are often lead (for supply) and drainage columns in cast iron. These materials, though resistant, have become obsolete, dangerous and sources of constant problems.
Their replacement is a major, costly project, but necessary for health, property value and condominium peace of mind. At Réseau Tubulure, we're experts in network rehabilitation in old buildings. Here's everything you need to know.
Lead: A Public Health Issue
Lead is toxic (saturnism) and banned for drinking water networks since 1995.
Replacement Obligation
If you own property with lead pipes (often the case between building meter and apartment), you have legal obligation to replace them. Water stagnates in these pipes, and lead particles dissolve, increasing risks.
How to Know if Your Pipes are Lead?
- Visual: Lead is gray, matte, soft (you can easily scratch it), and connections are thick.
- Testing: You can have water analyzed by a laboratory to measure lead level.
- Plumber Expertise: During intervention, our technician can identify your pipe nature.
Cast Iron: Drainage Problems
Cast iron was the standard for waste stacks (WC and wastewater drainage) in buildings from 1880 to 1950.
Dangers of Old Cast Iron
- Corrosion and Cracks: After 80 years, cast iron rusts and cracks, causing leaks in technical shafts (inaccessible) and water damage between floors.
- Recurring Blockages: Rust inside cast iron makes walls rough, tartar and grease stick, causing chronic blocked pipes requiring regular unclogging.
- Noise: Cast iron columns are extremely noisy during water drainage.
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Replacement Project: Steps and Materials
Replacement requires coordination with condominium (common areas) and City Hall (external connection).
1. Choosing New Materials
- Supply (Drinking water): We use Copper (very reliable) or PEX/Multilayer (cheaper and faster to install, ideal for embedded renovations).
- Drainage (Waste Stacks): Replacement with PVC (Poly-Vinyl Chloride). It's light, smooth (anti-blockage), durable and much quieter than cast iron.
2. Cost and Logistics
The pipe replacement cost is high because it often involves breaking walls or false ceilings to access technical shafts.
- Demolition/Access Phase: Most expensive and messy.
- Plumbing Phase: Installing new networks and new floor connections.
- Renovation Phase: Closing, filling, painting (outside our scope, but we coordinate).
3. Financial Aid
For lead elimination in common areas, certain local aids or National Housing Agency (ANAH) can be mobilized.
Important certifications for choosing a plumber
Réseau Tubulure Expertise
Our strength lies in project management:
- 3D Diagnosis: Using cameras and probes to map the old network before breaking everything.
- Building Manager Coordination: We manage communication with co-owners and managers to minimize inconvenience.
- Ten-Year Warranty: This type of work is covered by ten-year warranty, proof of our seriousness.
Conclusion: A Long-Term Investment
Don't underestimate consequences of old lead or cast iron piping. Acting means investing in your property's health. For precise quote and feasibility study for your Parisian building or apartment, contact our experts.
Réseau Tubulure - Plumbers and proud of it! 🔧
